Let's dive into the world of 'Big Mistakes,' a new Netflix comedy that has me thinking about the evolution of dark humor on TV. This show, created by Dan Levy and Rachel Sennott, feels like a direct descendant of the iconic 'Weeds,' a Showtime classic that, let's be honest, started great and then took a turn for the absurd. But here's the thing: I loved the silly seasons of 'Weeds,' and I think that's why 'Big Mistakes' caught my attention.
The Dark Comedy Genre: A Personal Favorite
I've always been drawn to dark comedies that showcase ordinary folks pushed to the brink by life's twists and turns, especially when capitalism is involved. It's a genre that feels so relevant and, well, human. And 'Big Mistakes' fits right into that category, with its story of a family navigating the complexities of life and crime.
A Cast of Characters: Beyond the Surface
The show centers around an ethnically and religiously diverse family, with Laurie Metcalf as the hardware store-owning matriarch, Linda. But it's Dan Levy's character, Nicky, a closeted gay pastor, and his sister Morgan, played by Taylor Ortega, who really drive the plot. Their journey into the world of Russian gangsters is a wild ride, and it's fascinating to see how their characters evolve (or don't) as the story unfolds.
Writing and Character Development: A Mixed Bag
Here's where things get interesting. Levy's writing style seems to follow a pattern: start broad, then dial it back. We saw this with 'Schitt's Creek,' and it's evident in 'Big Mistakes' too. The characters, especially Nicky and Morgan, feel like they're just going through the motions, with little depth beyond their initial introductions. Morgan's relationship with Max, for instance, is more intriguing than Nicky's, yet it's given less screen time. And then there's the third sibling, Natalie, played by Abby Quinn, who feels like an afterthought, despite her funny moments.
Motivation and the Observer Effect
One of the biggest questions I had while watching was: why are these characters doing what they're doing? It's almost as if the writers threw a bunch of ideas at the wall and said, 'Let's see what sticks.' This lack of motivation, especially in a crime comedy, is a bold choice. Usually, these shows have a strong economic or personal desperation driving the plot, but in 'Big Mistakes,' it feels like a game of chance.
The observer effect comes into play here. The more you analyze the show, the more its flaws become apparent. But here's the twist: it's still entertaining. The dialogue is sharp, the direction is tight, and the score keeps you on the edge of your seat. It's a surface-level thrill ride, but a fun one at that.
The Future of 'Big Mistakes': Potential and Pitfalls
The climactic reveal at the end of the season left me intrigued. It could set up an exciting second season, especially if the show leans more into the relationships between characters, like 'Schitt's Creek' did. But for now, it feels like 'Big Mistakes' is still finding its footing, trying to balance humor and heart. Personally, I'd love to see more depth and less reliance on coincidence. After all, great comedy often comes from a place of truth and emotion, and I think that's where this show could really shine.
So, will I be tuning in for more? Absolutely. 'Big Mistakes' has its flaws, but it also has potential, and I'm curious to see where this talented cast and writing team take us next.
